The time it takes to run a half marathon varies widely depending on the runner's ability, age, and gender. Here are some key points:
- The average half marathon finish time across all ages and genders is about 1 hour 50 minutes to 2 hours 2 minutes. For example, one source cites an average time of 1:50:15, while others report around 2:02:43
- A "good" half marathon time is often considered under 2 hours, which requires maintaining roughly a 9:09-minute mile pace
- Elite male runners can complete a half marathon in about 60 minutes, and elite female runners around 65 minutes
- The average finish time for male runners is around 1:59:26, with a pace of 9:07 per mile, while for female runners it is about 2:14:40, with a pace of 10:15 per mile
- Many recreational runners finish between 2 and 3 hours, with some races having cut-offs over 3 hours
In summary, most runners take between 1.5 to 3 hours to complete a half marathon, with the average around 2 hours. Elite runners finish closer to 1 hour, while beginners or slower runners may take over 2 hours. If you want to estimate your finish time based on pace, detailed pace charts are available that break down finish times by mile or kilometer pace
